PrEP SERVICES

Fort Worth, TX PrEP Services for HIV Prevention

As the leading LGBTQ+ medical clinic in Fort Worth, TX, AIDS Outreach Center is committed to delivering compassionate medical care for those living with HIV. One important preventative treatment we can help with is pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). PrEP is medication used to prevent transmission of HIV, with proven results among high-risk individuals. If you are concerned about HIV exposure and would like to learn more about this treatment option that can help prevent HIV transmission, please call 817-916-5254 to discuss PrEP.

 What is PrEP?

Pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, is a pill taken daily to prevent HIV. Daily PrEP use reduces the risk of getting HIV through sex by about 99%. Daily PrEP use also reduces the risk of getting HIV through injection drug use by more than 70%. Two medications are approved for daily use as PrEP to help prevent a person without HIV from getting the virus from sex or injection drug use. PrEP is safe and effective for adults and adolescents weighing above 35 kilograms (77 pounds). 

PrEP is intended for use before a possible exposure to HIV. If you think you have been exposed to HIV through needlestick, condomless sex, or by sharing needles or works to prepare drugs within the last 72 hours,

Why Is PrEP Effective?

PrEP involves taking the drugs Truvada or Descovy. When taken daily, the medication levels in your bloodstream are enough to prevent HIV cells from multiplying and spreading throughout the body. If, however, the daily dose is missed, the effectiveness of the drug is significantly reduced. Additionally, pre-exposure prophylaxis medication should be used in conjunction with condoms and HIV testing to further increase protection. Contact AIDS Outreach Center for help with HIV Testing Services.

Who Should Consider Using PrEP?

PrEP is used to prevent the transmission of HIV. Therefore, anyone at risk of contracting the disease should consider the treatment. The following groups fall into the high-risk category.

  • An HIV-negative person in a sexual relationship with an HIV-positive person.

  • Someone who has sex without condoms with a person who injects drugs.

  • Individuals with multiple sexual partners.

  • Gay or bisexual men who have sex without using a condom.

  • Anyone having sex without condoms with a person at risk for HIV.

  • Intravenous drug users who share needles.

Common Questions About PrEP

Does PrEP cause any side effects?

While most people will experience no side effects from PrEP, some could suffer from nausea, headaches, weight loss, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, stomach cramps and gas or bloating. Any side effects are usually mild and last only a few days.

Do I need to use condoms if I take PrEP?

It is recommended that you continue using condoms along with your PrEP medication. While PrEP can provide 99% protection from HIV, condoms offer additional protection along with a reduced chance of contracting STIs.

Can I get help paying for PrEP?

AIDS Outreach Center can help anyone looking to take PrEP. If you do not have insurance, we can assist you. If you have insurance, we will help you navigate your benefits for the best care.

Get Free PrEP Guidance From AIDS Outreach Center

If you are considering using PrEP medication, AIDS Outreach Center is here to offer guidance. We provide free and confidential consultations to individuals in Tarrant County.
Call the medical clinic at 817-916-5254 to get help today.